Clinical Experience of Mesenchymal Hamartoma of Liver

ABSTRACT

Purpose: Mesenchymal hamartoma of the liver (MHL) is an uncommon benign disease of childhood, yet its biology and pathogenesis are still unknown. It is difficult to diagnose from other hepatic tumors, and malignant transformation can occur. It has caused a debate regarding choice of the proper management of each neoplasm of liver in childhood. Methods: We analyzed histologically confirmed MHLs from 1998 to 2008. Results: Six patients presented at a median age of 21months, with a painless abdominal mass. Gastrointestinal symptoms were present in two patients. Abdominal ultrasonography and CT scans revealed a cystic, septated mass within the liver in all patients. Three patients underwent major hepatic resections, one had a simple excision of the tumor, and two were observed after biopsy. The median follow up period was 46months (range 6-115months), and there were neither recurrences of tumors nor complications, in patients who underwent surgical treatment. Conclusion: Resectable mesenchymal hamartoma of the liver in childhood with normal liver function studies can be cured by complete excision without complications and without recurrence.